Syrian government forces conducted security sweeps in Aleppo following the withdrawal of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) after days of clashes. The operation, which began Monday, focused on removing explosive devices and weapons from areas previously held by the SDF, according to a report by AFP.

The SDF's departure from Aleppo on Sunday followed a ceasefire agreement that facilitated the evacuation of fighters from the Ashrafieh and Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhoods. These neighborhoods, with a Kurdish majority, saw residents displaced by the recent fighting beginning to return to their homes as the security sweeps progressed. The evacuated SDF fighters were relocated to northeastern Syria, where the Kurdish-led forces maintain a semi-autonomous administration.

The recent clashes in Aleppo underscore the ongoing challenges in integrating armed factions within Syria. The SDF, a key U.S. ally in the fight against ISIL, controls significant territory in northeastern Syria. However, the Syrian government views the group's presence as a challenge to its sovereignty. Integrating these forces into the national army or finding a political solution that addresses the concerns of all parties remains a significant hurdle.

The Syrian army has intensified its strikes against SDF fighters in Aleppo in recent weeks, further escalating tensions. Simultaneously, the U.S. military has continued to conduct operations against ISIL in Syria, highlighting the complex and multi-faceted nature of the conflict.

The security sweeps are expected to continue in the coming days as Syrian forces work to secure the areas formerly held by the SDF. The long-term implications of the SDF withdrawal and the potential for renewed clashes remain uncertain.